08/08/08 - So I have arrived in Beijing and wow! Things here are amazing. The first day was just trying to get a slight run and work on adjusting. I actually feel really good getting off of a 12-hour plane flight. Our training site is wonderful, we are the only country allowed on the grounds. | Olympics page | Olympics photo gallery

On to the fun topics, I attended the opening ceremonies last night and it was awesome. Before the ceremonies we went to a holding chamber, which was one of the sporting venues. During holding, former President George H.W. Bush and President George W. Bush came to meet and greet the athletes. We had the opportunity to take group pictures (within our sporting teams) with the current president Bush. I think he liked me because he motioned for me stand next to him and then kissed me on the forehead. Plus, I got a couple of individual photos with him, which was awesome!

The security surrounding him was impressive as well. I kind of felt bad for him! From there, we went to the gymnastic facility where we were put in another waiting area. The gymnastic complex is amazing as well. I can't believe and express how awesome these facilities are - the Chinese really did a great job. Then it was on to the Bird's Nest. Walking into the stadium that I will compete on in 10 days was an awesome moment. I am so excited and can't wait until I get to stand on the line.

The opening ceremonies were extremely hot, due to the fact that we were in pants, long dress shirt and suit coat. Ralph Lauren designed our outfits and they were very trendy, comfortable, but hot. So now it's back to the normal routine of training and getting ready to compete. I feel better than ever and can't wait. I will update again in a day or so some pictures. I am off to the track!

Editor's note: Local Olympians Christin Wurth-Thomas (1,500-meter run) and Ogonna Nnamani (women's volleyball) have agreed to write a blog for pantagraph.com of their experiences during the Summer Games in Beijing. They will write periodically throughout the Games.